Dependant on drugs ?

Drug dependence is treatable. With the help of treatments targeting individual needs and concerns, people can control their drug taking behaviour and live happy and successful lives.

What is drug dependence?

Drug dependence is a pattern of repeated drug taking that usually results in tolerance (the need for greater amounts of the drug to achieve the same effect), withdrawal (physical and cognitive effects when drug use declines or stops), and compulsive drug taking behaviour (drug taking that persists despite efforts to reduce intake and despite problems with family, friends, and work).

Drug dependence is a complex problem. It encompasses a diverse range of drugs (such as alcohol, cannabis, amphetamines, and cocaine) and is caused by many different factors. Drug problems are frequently accompanied by other psychological problems, such as behavioural disorders, depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. These co-occurring psychological problems must be addressed when seeking treatment for drug dependence, as they may interfere with the effectiveness of treatment.

Treatment options

There are several treatment options available for drug dependence. These differ in their aims and outcomes. Elements of these treatment options are often combined.

1. Self-help: Self-help options vary but most involve the individual being responsible for their own treatment. Books, videos, and telephone and on-line support are some of the self-help options available. Typically, self-help materials involve some form of assessment of drug taking behaviour and associated consequences, monitoring of drug taking behaviour (including the conditions in which the drug is taken and the physical, emotional, and behavioural consequences of taking the drug), education about drugs and their effects, modification of drug taking behaviour, and access to support. Self-help components are commonly incorporated into other forms of treatment. Self-help groups are managed and run by people with drug issues. Because the members have drug issues, these groups can offer great insight, understanding, and support. An example of a self-help group is Alcoholics Anonymous.

2. Counselling: There are many different types of counselling techniques. Although they each have different theories and methods, they often address common issues.

a. Motivational interviewing: Motivational interviewing techniques concentrate on increasing motivation to change among individuals who have not yet made a decision to change or are not sure that they can change. Motivational interviewing aims to make the client accept responsibility for their problems and the consequences of those problems, and tries to help the client commit to particular treatment goals and strategies. Motivational interviewing is relatively time-limited and often read more